In their very first episode, Bridgette and Molly share who they are, how they met, and the moments they realized parenting wasn’t going to look the way they thought it would. From early observations to formal diagnoses, they open up about what it really means to raise kids like theirs. Resource Mentioned In a February episode of the Full-Tilt Parenting podcast titled: A Conversation with Dr. Ross Greene About the Kids Who Aren’t Okay, Ross Greene discussed the idea of “the unlucky kids.” The idea resonated deeply with us: some children show pain quietly and receive comfort, while others show it through behaviors like yelling, hitting, running, or exploding and are often met with correction first. Terms Mentioned ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) A neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulsivity, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. ADHD impacts much more than focus and activity levels. ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) A pattern of intense irritability, emotional reactivity, and resistance to demands that goes beyond typical childhood behavior. IEP (Individualized Education Program) A school plan that provides individualized supports and accommodations for students with identified needs. Sensory Processing Disorder Difficulty processing sensory information, which can lead children to seek or avoid certain sensory experiences. Neurodivergent / Neurodivergence A term describing brains that work differently from what is considered neurologically typical. RSD (Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria) An intense emotional reaction to real or perceived rejection, criticism, or disappointment. (Incorrectly referred to as Rejection Sensitivity Disorder in this episode) PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance / Persistent Drive for Autonomy) A profile involving extreme avoidance of demands, often connected to anxiety and a strong need for autonomy. Anxiety Persistent fear, worry, or nervous-system activation that can affect behavior and daily life. Trauma Emotional responses that can develop after difficult or overwhelming experiences. Occupational Therapy (OT) A therapy approach that helps children build everyday skills related to regulation, sensory needs, and independence. Invisible Disability Challenges that may not be visible to others, even though they significantly affect daily life. Dysregulation A state where a child becomes overwhelmed and loses access to coping or self-regulation skills. Fight, Flight, Freeze Automatic stress responses that can show up as aggression, avoidance, shutting down, or explosive behavior. Proprioception / Proprioceptive Input The body's sense of where it is in space. Some children seek movement, crashing, pressure, or rough play to help regulate. (Referred to as the "P" word in this episode.) Strong Sense of Justice Some neurodivergent children may be highly aware of fairness and rules, even while struggling with their own regulation. Anger Iceberg A framework showing that anger often sits on top of deeper emotions like sadness, fear, shame, or overwhelm. We are not experts — just parents sharing what we're learning in real time. If any of these terms are new to you, you're not alone. We're learning too.
